Am Govt Homework 12 Answers - Student Three

From Conservapedia

1. How is the Constitution amended, and what is an example of a proposed amendment that was never ratified?

In order to amend the Constitution, an amendment must be written and then proposed to be ratified by three quarters of the state legislatures. If this happens the amendment to the Constitution is validated. The ERA (Equal Rights Amendment) was proposed but never reached the three quarters of state legislatures needed to ratify it.

Excellent explanation.

2. What Articles of the U.S. Constitution establishes which branch of government?

Article 1 establishes the legislative including the Congress and Senate, article 2 establishes the executive, including the President, and article 3 establishes the judicial including the Supreme Court.

Correct.

3. What is a "lame duck"?

A lame duck refers to the period of time after an official has been voted out of office, but before he is replaced.

Good, concise explanation.

4. Explain how Congress can pass a law without the president approving.

If a law is vetoed by the president, Congress still has the power to ratify it with a two thirds majority.

Correct again.

5. What is gerrymandering?

Gerrymandering is the redrawing of congressional districts as to group a party majority together.

Superb concise explanation.

6. How often are members of the House of Representatives elected, how often are senators elected, and how often is a president elected?

Members of the House of Representatives are elected every two years, the Senate is elected every six years, and the president is elected every four years.

This is not quite right: "the Senate is elected every six years." Rather, each senator is elected every six years. One-third of the Senate is elected every two years. (-1)

7. What is a "trial balloon," and how does it relate to the media?

A trial balloon when a politician leaks an upcoming bill or law to the media in order to see the public's reaction. This relates to the media as they are the ones who publicize the idea.

Good, but incomplete. The purpose of the trial balloon needs to be included for a complete answer: the trial balloon enables a politician to change an unpopular decision before making it official. (-1) Also, trial balloons usually do not refer to bills or laws, but to other political decisions such as nominating someone. (-1)

8. Who are the "grassroots"?"?

The grassroots are most all of the people that do not hold office and are not part of the establishment. Grassroots, in reference to a grassroots movement is a political movement, which starts and grows without the backing of a political party or major organization. The grassroots was also a rock band that began in the year 1966, and since then has sold over 20 million records worldwide.

Better to say "people who" rather than "people that." Haven't heard of the rock band called "grassroots" (!), but the rest of your answer is excellent.

Total score: 77/80. Good finish to the course's homework assignments.--Andy Schlafly 20:44, 19 January 2013 (EST)